Today, Waterloo is a model of the mid-sized American City of the future! Located in the Upper Midwest, Waterloo is the major metro of the Cedar Valley Region of Northeast Iowa. As the Black Hawk County Seat, Waterloo is the hub for government, healthcare, education, employment, and retail for a region with a labor force draw of over 300,000. The population of over 66,000 is made up of 17% African Americans with growing Latino, Congolese, and Burmese populations among others. There are 45 different languages spoken in the Waterloo schools. Waterloo is addressing the issues of immigration, diversity and inclusion, and talent in proactive and intentional ways. The Waterloo Community Schools are preparing students for college, career, and citizenship through the Leader in Me, International Baccalaureate, and Career Academies. Waterloo is home to Hawkeye Community College, Allen College, and Upper Iowa University. Waterloo is also home to TechWorks Campus a 30-acre advanced manufacturing, research & development, innovation, education, commercial and manufacturing center including the University of Northern Iowa Metal Casting Additive Manufacturing Center and Design Lab, Hawkeye Community College Design Lab and North America’s largest 3D printer. Waterloo has a rich history of entrepreneurialism and strong start-up ecosystem. Major brands located in Waterloo include John Deere, Tyson Foods, ConAgra Grocer Products, Ryder Integrated Logistics, Bertch Cabinets, and Omega – MasterBrand Cabinets. There are three major health systems: Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare Iowa, Unity Point Allen Heath System, and Cedar Valley Medical Specialists. Waterloo is improving the health and well-being of its citizens as a Blue Zones community and through the Healthy H2Loo initiative. Plan a visit to and enjoy one of the unique festivals such as My Waterloo Days, National Cattle Congress, and Iowa’s Irish Fest. Visit the award-winning water park Lost Island, Lost Island Theme Park or the extensive Museum District which includes: the 5 Sullivan Veterans Museum, Grout Museum of History & Science, Bluedorn Science Imaginarium, Dan Gabel Wrestling Museum, John Deere Tractor and Engine Museum, Waterloo Center for the Arts, Phelps Youth Pavilion, and more all within walking distance of each other! Take a look at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yM-wOt3Dn2I
